“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

“Cloud Number 9” is a song by Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams. Released in 1999, the song is part of his eighth studio album, “On a Day Like Today.” Known for its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, “Cloud Number 9” became a hit, reaching high positions on music charts worldwide. It showcases Adams’ ability to blend rock with pop influences, appealing to a broad audience and adding to his repertoire of successful tracks.

The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal themes of love and escapism, which resonate with listeners across generations. Bryan Adams’ signature raspy voice and emotive delivery further enhance the track’s appeal, making it a staple in his live performances and a favorite among fans.

About The Composition

  • Title: Cloud Number 9
  • Composer: Bryan Adams, Max Martin, and Gretchen Peters
  • Premiere Date: 1999
  • Album/Opus/Collection: On a Day Like Today
  • Genre: Soft rock, pop rock

Background

“Cloud Number 9” was co-written by Bryan Adams, along with renowned Swedish songwriter Max Martin and American singer-songwriter Gretchen Peters. The song’s production was handled by Adams and Bob Rock, a frequent collaborator. It was one of the standout tracks from “On a Day Like Today,” an album that marked a departure from Adams’ earlier rock-centered work, incorporating more pop and contemporary influences. The song’s remix by Chicane, a British electronic music artist, further boosted its popularity, particularly in the European market.

The track’s release was met with positive reception, as it demonstrated Adams’ versatility and ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes. It was particularly successful in the UK, where the Chicane remix version received significant airplay and chart success. This collaboration with Chicane highlighted the trend of merging rock with electronic elements in the late 1990s, a move that helped the song reach a wider audience.

Musical Style

“Cloud Number 9” features a blend of soft rock and pop rock elements, characterized by its smooth guitar riffs and rhythmic drum patterns. The song’s production is polished, with a focus on melodic hooks and a catchy chorus that invites sing-alongs. The remix version by Chicane adds an electronic layer, incorporating synths and a more pronounced beat, which gives the track a danceable quality.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics of “Cloud Number 9” explore themes of love, escapism, and the euphoric feeling of being in a perfect state of happiness. The song uses the metaphor of being on “cloud number nine” to describe a blissful emotional state, often associated with being in love. This relatable theme is one of the reasons why the song resonates with listeners, capturing the essence of romantic elation.

Performance History

Since its release, “Cloud Number 9” has been a staple in Bryan Adams’ live performances. The song’s energetic and uplifting nature makes it a crowd favorite, often performed during encores. Notable performances include its inclusion in Adams’ sets during his world tours, where it is consistently met with enthusiasm and sing-alongs from audiences worldwide.

Cultural Impact

“Cloud Number 9” has maintained its presence in popular culture, frequently appearing in romantic playlists and compilations. Its remix version by Chicane has also been featured in various dance and electronic music collections. The song’s universal theme of love and happiness ensures its continued relevance, often being used in media that aims to evoke a sense of joy and romance.

Legacy

The legacy of “Cloud Number 9” is evident in its enduring popularity and continued airplay. It stands as a testament to Bryan Adams’ adaptability as an artist and his ability to craft songs that resonate across different musical tastes. The song’s influence can be seen in the way it bridges the gap between rock and electronic music, a trend that has become increasingly prevalent in the music industry.

Conclusion

“Cloud Number 9” remains a beloved track in Bryan Adams’ discography, showcasing his talent for creating timeless music. Its combination of rock and pop elements, along with its relatable themes, ensure its place in the hearts of listeners. I encourage those unfamiliar with the song to explore its various versions, including the Chicane remix, to fully appreciate its impact and charm.

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Lyrics

clue number one was when you knocked on my door

clue number two was the look that you wore

n’ that’s when i knew, it was a pretty good sign

that something was wrong up on cloud number nine

well it’s a long way up and we won’t come down tonight

well it may be wrong but baby it sure feels right

and the moon is out and the stars are bright

and whatever comes s’gonna be alright

cause tonight you will be mine – up on cloud number nine

and there ain’t no place that i’d rather be

and we can’t go back but you’re here with me

yeah, the weather is really fine – up on cloud number nine

now he hurt you and you hurt me

and that wasn’t the way it was supposed to be

so baby tonight let’s leave the world behind

and spend some time up on cloud number nine

well it’s a long way up and we won’t come down tonight

well it may be wrong but baby it sure feels right

well we won’t come down tonight

ya we won’t come down tonight

no we won’t come down tonight

we can watch the world go by – up on cloud number nine